Arteta Applauds a More Dependable Team and Acknowledges Kai Havertz Setback.
Mikel Arteta has expressed confidence that his side can continue to cope with injury setbacks following revealing that forward Kai Havertz will not return for a few more weeks.
Extended Absence for German Star
The German forward has been sidelined for months following knee surgery. Hoped to come back sooner, the manager stated the player faced a hurdle when stepping up his rehabilitation and could not progress “the next phase.”
“We learned, and we were able to put together a team that is considerably steadier and has increased versatility,” stated the manager.
Tactical Decisions for Midweek Fixture
This development presents a tactical puzzle for Wednesday’s match against Brentford. A decision is required between persisting with Mikel Merino, who scored playing out of position on Sunday, or reinstating Viktor Gyökeres, who came back from a muscle injury in the latter stages. Veteran striker Gabriel Jesus is also an option after 11 months out.
Defensive Concerns Linger
More doubts involve centre-back William Saliba and attacker Leandro Trossard, who were absent for the Chelsea match. Therefore, summer signings Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapié are expected to continue in the backline for the league leaders.
Arteta feels the significant outlay on squad depth during the summer has left Arsenal in a much stronger position to handle such setbacks.
Greater Options Vital for Title Challenge
In response if increased squad depth was benefiting their title quest, the manager agreed. “Absolutely, because this season has been worse in some areas, and now the situation with the backline,” he noted.
“Our previous experiences taught us that we have to use players in various roles, and they must be capable to fulfil different roles if we want to compete at this level. And the case of Mikel is probably the prime illustration.”
Arteta's Support for Suffering Star
Addressing the complication previously mentioned by Germany manager Julian Nagelsmann, Arteta offered additional context. “His recovery was progressing. He was unable to progress to the required step and now it appears like we have unlocked that.”
He shared his eagerness to have him back. “The team is keen to have him. Honestly, he is a footballer who, in my view, I love so much for the qualities he offers to the team, but his personality, his attitude. I watch him struggle on the sidelines.”
“His fitness history is phenomenal, he's rarely been injured, and I look forward to have him back involved on the pitch because I believe it’s going to be a huge lift.”
